In brief
On March 1, 2025, Prince Frederik of Luxembourg, known for his efforts to raise awareness of POLG disorder, died at the young age of 22 due to complications from the rare genetic condition.
Prince Frederik, the second cousin of the heir to the Luxembourg throne, faced a difficult battle with POLG disease, a mitochondrial disorder stemming from a mutation in his POLG gene, which plays a crucial role in DNA replication and repair. His father, Prince Robert, confirmed Frederik's passing in a statement released through the POLG Foundation, which the prince co-founded.Diagnosed at 14, Frederik learned that about one in 10,000 individuals suffer from POLG disease, which leads to impaired energy production in cells. The disease can affect various organs and result in debilitating symptoms like seizures and loss of coordination. In heartfelt remarks, Prince Robert described POLG deficiency as akin to a battery that cannot fully recharge, perpetually depleting energy until it ultimately fails.Acknowledged for his resilience and determination, Frederik established the POLG Foundation, utilizing his genetic material to further research, initiate studies, and even produce a short film about the disorder. He also created a clothing line aimed at fundraising for POLG research. Born in Aix-en-Provence, France, and raised in Switzerland, Frederik displayed a passion for pop culture, having watched the American series "The Office" multiple times.In his final moments, while battling pneumonia and another serious infection, Frederick gazed out of the hospital window to see the illuminated Eiffel Tower, cherishing the beauty of a sunset he asked his brother, Alexander, to photograph. He was a second cousin to Prince Guillaume, who will ascend the Luxembourg throne when Grand Duke Henri retires this coming October.Reflecting on his journey, Frederik once expressed, “When you’re a kid, you have all these dreams, all these aspirations... I’m not sure I understood all the consequences of POLG when I first got diagnosed. It’s more subtle, where slowly the world is getting smaller and smaller.” His impactful legacy will continue through the foundation dedicated to combatting this disease.
